The following report is from Pat Bell Midlands Area Organiser:
The Flatcoated Retriever Society (Midlands Area) held their Novice and Open Working Test today at Grove Park, Hampton on the Hill, by kind permission of the landowners. Interesting and challenging tests were set by the judges, Sheila Suzuki, Carolyn Jenkins, Pat Dixon and Sue Corden, making full use of the varied ground and water available. The following awards were made:
Novice – 3rd Alan Brighton’s Casblaidd Cuchulain
Open – 1st Andy Sweeney’s Norfolk Flyer Rosie’s Thorne of Wolfthistle
3rd Linday Swan’s Swantonwood Rosedor handled by Reece Merry
Best water retrieve trophy to Lindsay Swan’s Swantonwood Gold Leaf
Best newcomer (1st Novice Test entry) to Anne Haley’s Castlerock Return to Sender at Skybrook
Many thanks to the landowners, gamekeeper, estate manager, and to everyone who came to help in whatever capacity. This was my last test and I am so grateful to those who supported it. I think it was an enjoyable day, enlivened with one or two memorable incidents!!
Thank you all. Pat

Award winners as listed above- photograph credit Derek Churchard

Open winner Andy Sweeney and Norfolk Flyer Rosie’s Thorne of Wolfthistle
Photograph credit Derek Churchard.